INTR12-216: The Americas

The Americas is a career-skills-focused, advanced, interdisciplinary subject essential to understanding the contemporary global system, which remains dominated and profoundly shaped by the United States. The subject examines the historical, political, economic, and cultural dynamics of the Western Hemisphere—from North America through the Caribbean to South America. It traces European arrival and colonisation, the rise of the United States as the first global hegemon, and its enduring influence through its contemporary political system, foreign policy, hard power, economy, and trade. Students then explore the emergence of middle and potential great powers (Brazil, Canada, Argentina, Colombia, Chile, and Mexico), revolutionary alternatives in Cuba and Venezuela, and the evolution of regionalism through institutions such as Mercosur, CELAC, and those in the Caribbean. It concludes by assessing the Americas’ pivotal role in the global order. Leveraging AI tools for research, analysis, and writing, students develop critical insights into power asymmetries, identity, integration, and hemispheric challenges while honing high-demand career skills in strategic thinking, policy analysis, persuasive communication, and public engagement. A key assessment is an Op-Ed piece that guides students in crafting publishable opinion articles on timely subject-related topics.